Rumor: Minnesota keeping Darko Milicic, trading Al Jefferson?

David Kahn admitted on Friday that he is exploring a trade of Al Jefferson and the likelihood of a trade increases if the Wolves re-sign Darko Milicic.

"It’s the right time finally for us to explore this," Kahn said of a possible Jefferson trade. "I’ve met with Al and discussed this. If Darko comes back, there could be a need to create some playing time. We really need to get our front line settled."

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Minnesota wants to trade Al Jefferson, the power-forward who was supposed to be their lead wolf.

Remember, Jefferson was acquired from the Boston Celtics, as the key to the blockbuster trade involving Kevin Garnett. He initially responded to his new surroundings by posting 20-10 numbers in his first season with the Timberwolves.

Their relationship has suddenly soured, though.

Minnesota’s new head suit, David Kahn, sees Jefferson as a guy who posts good statistics on bad teams. For instance, talented players should always be able to play together, but Jefferson struggles next to youngster Kevin Love.

And Jefferson seems to have lost faith in Minnesota. He probably sees the franchise as incapable of ever becoming more than the NBA’s Siberia. For instance, lottery pick Ricky Rubio has stayed in Europe rather than joining the Timberwolves.

Of course, Jefferson’s DUI charge in late February didn’t help.

Unfortunately, club and player should invest in therapy or counselling because they’re likely stuck together. Jefferson’s contract – three years and $42 million – will be tough to move in this economy.

Re-signing Milicic, also known as The Human Victory Cigar, is an interesting development. Most thought the left-handed Serbian would catch the first flight back to Europe and sign in the ABC League when the NBA season ended.

Clearly, the Wolves believe Milicic’s career can be salvaged. And he has a most intoxicating skill-set for a seven-footer. Hopefully, the former second overall pick gets a legitimate opportunity if he stays in the NBA.

However, Milicic might not stick in Minnesota because of Jefferson’s big ticket contract can’t be dealt.